The Autism Fountain

02/01/2026

PUBLIC STATEMENT & APPEAL

The Autism Fountain – January 2026

As we enter 2026, The Autism Fountain finds itself facing one of the most difficult moments in its five-year journey.

Despite repeated reminders and countless follow-ups, no meaningful effort has been made to settle outstanding arrears. At present, the organisation is burdened with R300 000 in unpaid fees, placing our continued operation under severe strain.

We are scheduled to open our Boarding Houses in Kuilsrivier, East London, and Pretoria on Saturday, 10 January 2026. Whether this will be possible is, at this stage, uncertain.

Even newly enrolled families have begun the year in arrears, citing various challenges for the non-payment of January fees. Our dedicated staff have made every possible effort to communicate with parents — many calls went unanswered, and in some cases, communication was refused.

We are dealing with vulnerable autistic children — many of whom are non-verbal.
These children did not ask to be born into circumstances of uncertainty. They cannot speak for themselves, negotiate fees, or protect their own futures.

When payments are ignored, it is not an institution that suffers first — it is the children.
Their routines are disrupted.
Their sense of safety is threatened.
Their progress is placed at risk.

Today, The Autism Fountain stands at a crossroads.

Our staff must be paid.
Our landlords require rent.
Essential services such as internet connectivity, printing systems, and operational contracts face suspension if accounts are not settled.

For five years, The Autism Fountain has operated not for profit, but for purpose. We have consistently made a way where there seemed to be none — often using personal funds, extended hours, and emotional strength to ensure that vulnerable children received care, structure, and safety.

We have supported children when families were overwhelmed.
We have created secure, nurturing environments.
We have invested in development, dignity, and hope.

Today, we appeal to our community, parents, and supporters:

If you are able to settle your arrears — fully or partially — please do so urgently.
If you are facing genuine difficulty, please communicate with us openly so that realistic arrangements can be made.

Turning away, remaining silent, or avoiding responsibility places the future of these children at risk.
Their well-being cannot be postponed.

This appeal is not made in anger — it is made in truth, urgency, and deep concern for the children entrusted to us.

We remain committed to them.
We ask now that commitment be shared.

The Autism Fountain Management

01/01/2026

Limited spaces available! Will work on first come first serve base now! So parents who pay the R1 000 registration fee first children will be enrolled! When spaces are filled, we will have to put names on waiting list! Thank you!

01/01/2026

30/12/2025

Dear Parent

Yes, you are special.

God entrusted you with an autistic child. You may have asked yourself, “Why me?”
The answer is simple yet powerful: because He knew you would be able.

Able to do what?
Able to love, to fight, to learn, and to raise your child to the very best of your ability. God also knew that there would be days when you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and as if you cannot carry the weight anymore. And it is during those moments that He made sure The Autism Fountain would cross your path.

The Autism Fountain has branches in East London, Pretoria, Kuilsrivier, and from January also in Vredendal. What makes The Autism Fountain unique is our deep understanding of autistic children and their families. We enrol autistic children from as young as 3 years old, even if they are not yet potty trained, and we offer boarding facilities that only close during the June and December holidays.

We understand how hard it can be when you are exhausted, stretched thin, and still caring for other siblings. That is why The Autism Fountain is here — to support you and to provide your child with a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. Your child will be cared for by trained staff who are committed to helping them grow, develop, and reach their full potential.

You may now be wondering about the costs involved. When compared to similar facilities, many parents are surprised to learn how accessible our fees are. Our boarding facilities are available at R6 500 per month. For parents who prefer a day option, your child can attend as a Day Scholar from 7:00 in the morning until before 5:00 in the afternoon at R4 800 per month, with a cooked lunch included every day.

Important dates:
The Boarding Facilities will open on Saturday, 10 January 2026, from 10:00.
From Monday, 12 January 2026, you may drop your child off as a Day Scholar.

So you see, dear parent — there is help.

You do not have to walk this journey alone. The Autism Fountain is here to walk alongside you, to support you, and to help you raise your child with love, dignity, and care. We know you may sometimes feel incapable or not good enough — but remember, God knows that you are more than good enough.

📞 Call us now on 078 459 534 if you are serious about enrolling your autistic child for 2026.
We will always make space for another autistic child — because we truly care.

With care and compassion,
The Autism Fountain Team

24/12/2025

Today is Christmas.
But today, my heart is heavy.

What is Christmas?
For us as The Autism Fountain, Christmas is not just lights, gifts, or celebrations. Christmas is sacrifice. It is showing up every single day for children who need structure, patience, love and understanding.

For a full year, our teachers and assistants gave their all to every autistic child entrusted to us - whether as a Day Scholar or a boarder in our Boarding House. They wiped tears, managed meltdowns, celebrated small victories, created routines and gave unconditional care. They worked long hours, often beyond what is expected, because they care.

All I wanted today was to pay them what they deserve.

But today, once again, I couldn't.

So many parents did not keep to their agreements. I made phone calls today - not to complain, not to threaten - but to beg. Phones were switched off. Calls went unanswered. And when someone did answer, it often came with complaints .... not understanding.

What breaks my heart the most is this:
Our staff never complain.
They continue to give.
They continue to show up.
Even when their own Christmas is uncertain.

We are not a business driven by profit. We are a place of care, structure and safety for vulnerable children. We receive no funding, yet we carry the emotional, physical and financial responsibility every single day.

Christmas is meant to be about love, accountability, and compassion. Today I ask - please remember the people who care for your child when you cannot. Remember the hands that guide them, protect them and believe in them.

This post is not written in anger.
It is written from exhaustion ... and from a heart that still hopes.

Merry Christmas to those who understand, support and stand with us.
And to our incredible staff - thank you. You are seen.
You matter.

-Nicolene Botha
Founder / The Autism Fountain.

08/12/2025

Prize giving 2025 East London

08/12/2025

Prize giving 2025 Kuilsrivier

06/12/2025

Registrasies vir Namakwa Outistiese Skool in Vredendal nou oop met opsies vir Dagskoliere en Koshuisfasiliteite! Ons is opgewonde om mee te deel dat dit ‘n twee medium skool sal wees met Afrikaans en Engelse klasse!
Dagskoliere